Sunrise receives $45,000 Trillium Foundation grant

PUSLINCH – The team from Sunrise Therapeutic Riding and Learning Centre met on Sept. 25 to celebrate the $45,000 Resilient Communities Fund grant they received in August from the Ontario Trillium Foundation. 

The three-month grant will help Sunrise rebuild and recover from impacts of COVID-19 by purchasing a used farm tractor to support health and safety, program development, and future self-sufficiency.

“We are very grateful to the Ontario Trillium Foundation for its support of the programming at Sunrise,” said Wellington-Halton Hills MPP Ted Arnott. 

“Having this tractor on-site will make a world of difference. 

“I also want to thank the staff, volunteers and supporters of Sunrise for 40 years of service, helping children and adults with disabilities reach their full potential.”

The acquisition of a Massey Ferguson model 2860M tractor complete with cab and front-end loader will allow Sunrise to implement pasture and farm maintenance procedures which is a significant part of health and safety in a farm setting.  

Well-maintained and accessible pathways, trails, and horse shelters are important for program participants, volunteers, equines and staff.  

This significant addition to the Sunrise organization will provide and sustain the future growth of its programs, including the Sunrise Therapy/Memorial Forest.

“The impact of this Ontario Trillium Foundation grant cannot be overstated,” said Sunrise executive director Lynne O’Brien. 

“This grant will allow Sunrise to be more self-sufficient and plan for the future with our farm operations after years of receiving kind help and support from our neighbours and their equipment.”